THE KNIGHTS OF THE GOLDEN CIRCLE April 2, 1862
http://www.nytimes.com/1862/04/02/news/washington-further-modification-tax-bill-proposal-abolish-slavery-district.html
NEWS FROM WASHINGTON.; OUR SPECIAL WASHINGTON DISPATCHES. April 2, 1862
WASHINGTON, Tuesday, April 1.
THE KNIGHTS OF THE GOLDEN CIRCLE.
"It appears from official correspondence that toward the close of last year, a letter, written by a Dr. HOPKINS, came into possession of the State Department. It was therein stated that an organization had been formed, by which the members of the Knights of the Golden Circle were to rush into the army and service of the Federal Government, and thus gain influence and position for carrying out their treasonable schemes; and, further, that Ex-President PIERCE was among its prominent members. When this letter was received, a note was sent to Ex-President PIERCE, inclosing an extract from it, saying: "Your name is connected with a secret league, the object of which is to overthrow the Government. Any information on the subject will be acceptable." Mr. PIERCE, in reply, expresses his surprise that even seeming credence should have been given to the charge; appeals to his general course as a complete refutation of the slander, and remarks that he never belonged to any secret league, society or association, and further objects to the form of the note. Secretary SEWARD, in reply, explains that this was written by WM. HUNTER, chief clerk of the Department; explains the circumstances under which he signed it; regrets that it gave offence, and offers an apology."
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